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I enjoy the poetics of language. The way words may laugh, taunt, or tease. The silvery sound slight- and slant-rhyme expound on the page, on the lips — order issued by human air. The Word wielded through verse or rant {lacking form}, carries meaning, capturing our experiences. Poetry experiences the essence of life.

Click HERE and check out DavyD’s original post that prompted my answer.

#WorldPoetryDay

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Truth is subjective, affecting the individual in the present moment. In efforts of survival, Yann Martel’s protagonist Pi Patel shares two stories of the same incident in Life of Pi. Human thought and imagination use critical thinking skills as creative ways of envisioning outcomes for situations. Jonathan Gottschall calls imagined scenarios elements of “story” and sees “storytelling” as an evolutionary adaption. In The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human, Gottschall illustrates the authoritative human voice found in “story.” Forms of fiction such as literature, film, and video games, provide imaginative experience that propels the participant through the critical world of “what-if.” Reality can be harsh. This essay shows that creating elaborate delusions soothes one’s spirit and presents room for possibility.

The facts of Pi’s tragedy are: the Patel family, with their zoo animals, were aboard the Tsimtsum; the ship sunk in the oceans’ depths, leaving Pi as sole survivor. Japanese officials investigate the occurrence and interview Pi who issues his circumstance through two “storytelling” methods: subjective-spirituality and objective-rationality. In the first “story,” Pi’s narrative voice constructs the events by offering a rich, detailed observance of the animal world and religious connection with three belief systems. However, the second rendition of the same event at sea presents an anticlimactic dose of reason that issues the ugly truth. Neither “story” explains why the Tsimtsum sunk, and the reader is left deciding which tale holds preference: the facts or the fabrication.

The second “story” rudely shows face at the end, shocking the reader who longed for Richard Parker’s noble inclusion. This action turns the tables on truth, showing the reality of Pi’s situation as distasteful. The reader comes to love Pi and finds disgust at acts of cannibalism and primal brutality. The reader wishes the truth was not real, that the first “story” was instead possible and accurate. More than likely, the “storyteller” also sides with the tale involving the tiger because the means for creating this “story” lives in survival. In order of simply making it through, Pi relied on the authority of his imagination. Pi created another individual – Richard Parker – from his memory and veterinary knowledge. In avoidance of absolute solitude, Pi utilized the power of “story” in creation of a reality he could deal with or accept.

“Story” is not limited to fiction, and Gottschall notes religious institutions as harnessing societal needs with “story.” The catch, however, is that different religions may tell contrasting versions of “stories.” He said, “Religion draws coreligionists together, and it drives those of different faiths apart” (Gottschall 123). Pi connects with three opposing religions. Forming a bond with each deity, Pi picks and chooses which religious message he prefers. In this way, Pi internally avoids religious disagreement. By subjectively addressing belief, Pi sculpts his own understanding. This essay notes the value lay in accepting multiple “stories” for individual comprehension.

The evolutionary benefit lay with the first “story.” Evolution supports the betterment of species. Gottschall calls the characters from “story” – including fictional, historical, and religious figures – “ink people,” recognizing the “ink people’s” way of wielding authority inside reality (144). He said, “[Ink people] shape our behaviors and our customs, and in so doing, they transform societies and histories” (Gottschall 144). Giving slave-narratives as reference, Gottschall shows that through Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Harriet Beecher Stowe brought atrocities of Southern slavery into the consciousness of Northern citizens. Readers connected with Eliza’s character and empathized with her plight. Pi presented a case for relation and interaction with the animal world as means for survival.

Humans are social creatures. In absence of society, Pi’s “story” provides a sense of community with Richard Parker, Orange Juice, the hyena, and the zebra. Pi creates an animal society in avoidance of insanity, he said, “Things didn’t turn out the way they were supposed to, but what can you do? You must take life the way it comes at you and make the best of it” (Martel 91). Pi could not accept that the Chinese sailor was murdered and eaten by the French Cook, or that his dear mother stood up against inhumane cannibalism, also falling at the cook’s hand. Instead, Pi let the cook be a hyena, his mother Orange Juice, and himself Richard Parker. After all, a tiger is not afraid of a man. Better to be a tiger than a victim.

Truth alters along with the individual, and what is true for one now may not be true after experiencing a challenge or traumatic event. Truth – like humans – is victim to subjective encounter and interpretation. Pi’s truth is that he survived by any means necessary. Pi’s struggle was holding onto his humanness. “Storytelling” is a unique trait of humanity. Through art and literature, humans envision wonderful and terrible outcomes in efforts of lessening life’s struggle. Pi’s “story” encourages that the reader becomes their own tiger. Accept what one has but work towards creating the best scenario.

Works Cited

Gottschall, Jonathan. The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human. New York:

If you can think it, you can be it…

Ok – does that mean I can be anything I think that I can become? Context holds supreme value. If I think I am a unicorn…crickets. However, if I think I am I writer, I can be one. In fact, I am a writer as demonstrated by writing this very blog. Now, if I intend on being a successful writer…well, that takes a bit more time, effort, skill, and product. This is important: Thought requires action as a follow-through.

Henry Ford is noted for saying: “Whether you believe you can do a thing or not, you are right” (Quote Investigator).

Excellent, but how do you apply the concept? As with many things, sheer belief is not enough. Belief in the self requires more than simply thinking, and one must act on their desires for effect in the material world. What that means is that one must apply their thoughts actively in their lives. In example, Steve believes he will become a brain surgeon. Steve knows he needs education and experience so that he may become a doctor. Steve toils away, challenging himself at university so that he has realistic tools that provide validation for his belief. Steve becomes a doctor because he believed in himself – but the only way he could make it happen was through action.

That initial belief in the self is a crucial element, but belief is not strong enough on its own and cannot produce results. Way back in Communications and Public Speaking, I learned about “self-fulfilling prophecies.” What one tells the self holds much authority with what that individual holds as true and/or possible. Consciousness is shifty like that, the more often we hear or say something is true, the more true it becomes.

In application, the concept works at improving or destroying one’s self-conscious opinion of what they can or cannot attain in life. This can be seen clearly in abuse. Imagine Molly has an abusive boyfriend who tells her everyday that she is unattractive, overweight, and stupid. Because Molly value’s her boyfriend’s opinion of her and trusts his judgement, she will eventually believe the negative comments are true and real. Molly’s judgment is clouded by outside prophetic limitations.

However, if she considered the statements with a positive manner, she could see that the boyfriend defeats himself with his claims. Molly cannot be completely unattractive or else she would not have attracted the boyfriend. Instead, the negatives listed are probably fears the boyfriend has in regards of himself. Abusive boyfriends often project their flaws on their victims. What Molly needs is a better self-image – and that goes back to what one thinks they can be. Molly can accept she is not a supermodel, and focus on her true qualities, hence altering her perception of herself.

“The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes” (William James).

William James’ quote caught my eye this morning on Twitter.Great quote, with excellent intentions. However, I wonder if people unfamiliar with James’ variant philosophies catch the meaning. And, I consider the dangers lurking in the Law of Attraction when taken out of context.

“Now the starting point is to see that Thought, or purely mental action, is the only possible source from which the existing creation could ever have come into manifestation at all…” (Thomas Troward).

I cannot accept concepts of the Law of Attraction. I’ve tried; I’ve read, researched, theorized, and exhausted myself searching for firm ground. I decided not to include a link because I cannot feel good about any of the sites I’ve studied. The main issue I hold is that struggle is necessary for growth, just wishing for something does not make it so.

I do recommend The Dore Lectures by Thomas Troward, but I caution that his look at Mental Science relies heavily on religious belief. Click HERE and read free online. Now, that’s not to say that there is no value in the theory of like attracting like – the fundamental holds true for implementing positive perception in life. However, perception must at one point come to terms with reality.

Ayn Rand said, “In order to live, man must act; in order to act, he must make choices; in order to make choices, he must define a code of values; in order to define a code of values, he must know what he is and where he is—i.e., he must know his own nature (including his means of knowledge) and the nature of the universe in which he acts—i.e., he needs metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, which means: philosophy. He cannot escape from this need; his only alternative is whether the philosophy guiding him is to be chosen by his mind or by chance” (Objectivism for Intellectuals).

And so…we must take a closer look at Metaphysics. What exists and what does not show face in reality. A deeper interest in reality has led me towards Objectivism. Ayn Rand developed Objectivism Philosophy and wrote novels that revealed societal issues, including The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged. Currently, I am about one-third through the latter, and I see numerous elements of corruption present in contemporary society as described by Rand in 1957.

The Ayn Rand Institute carries values of her philosophy and offers further study. Check out ARI and learn about Objectivism. Share your comments below. I watched Prof. Peikoff’s lecture yesterday, and I really like the sound structure of Metaphysics, Epistemology, Ethics, Politics, and Aesthetics as seen in Objectivism. Of intense interest is how to implement laissez-faire Capitalism – it sounds scary, but I think that’s false-morality talking. Definitely deserves a .

“Introduction to Objectivism” by Leonard Peikoff

I can think many things. I can imagine numerous thoughts. However, I must select which thoughts are worthy of implementing through action. What thoughts I will have in my reality, what is really possible. And here is where positive thoughts attract positive things. Whatever one looks for is what they will find. Why? because it was there all along, the mind just missed it because it was set to a different “channel.”

Altering one’s reality begins with altering the self, or how one perceives the self to be. Starting out basic, let’s set a sound, realistic version of who that self is, what that self can do, and how that self behaves. Think on it; really work it around in your mind. Then, realize that for the self to improve, that self must act on its desires, goals, and wants. Altering the self begins in the mind and continues through implemented action.

I have not blogged for so long that I cannot remember the last thing I wrote. Since moving to the Denver area, my days have been pleasantly full. For the past few weeks, my attentions were focused on my doctoral application process for the University of Denver. Currently, the application is awaiting the GRE score {gnashing of teeth}. I do not want to think about my score so no details…know only that I am a poor tester.

1. I joined Lighthouse Writers.

I love the community involvement provided. Lighthouse Writers participate in “Writing the City” and “Friday 500.” In October, we toured the Clyfford Still Museum and wrote on his “Works on Paper” collection. I read my piece, “Lady of Misery,” at the museum’s 5yr anniversary gala on 18 November 2016. LW collaborate with museums and art galleries as means of relaying artistic expression through diverse media. A text of the poems will be available in 2017. Also, I took my first workshop “Weird World Building” with Prof. Lumans. We read Neil Gaiman’s American Gods, discussed symbolism, and participated in writing exercises. Lighthouse spring courses begin in January, and I have not decided yet which workshop I want. Click HERE for Lighthouse Writers website; online courses available.

2. The Denver music scene is a challenge.

There are so many bands to choose from, selecting a show is a mini-ordeal. One ultimate truth: music relies on subjective preference. lol. Just because a friend says it’s the “best band, you’ll love them!” – does not mean that the band is even something you classify as “music.” For me – a writer, a thinker, a reader – I need words. If there are no lyrics in your music, then there is no direction for my mind to follow. Instead, it just loops and loops in eternal “warm-up” phase. No thank you<>. So…I am trying to make room for EDM – ole girl just needs a few words thrown into the mix. Sorry, Tag and all the editors at Punchland.com – I wanted to send you loads of cool reviews and write-ups. Sadly, I cannot corral enough positive thoughts to write about the music I’ve experienced. Instead, I would be writing on the “festival goers” dependency on drugs …and, in my opinion, if one must take the drugs to enjoy the music, then…the music must not be that good to begin with. But that’s just me, and I am not into drugs or bad music. I like my music lean on additives and full of meaning.

We saw Maynard from Tool – twice. We went to the concert and then attended his book reading. The concert was amazing! Even though Maynard forbid photographs and videos, I saw some posted on YouTube. I opted for the official video here because I want to honor the artist’s request. Seeing the show was great, however, the book ended up being written by Sarah Jensen, and the reading – lmfao – was confused by most of his fans with a show. Click HERE for some reviews, many of which sound like they were written by website employees. First book reading I’ve ever been to where the audience screamed out, “Fuck Yeah Man!” and ticket-holders were so drunk they literally fell down. It would have all been worth it if the book was awesome. Sadly, it is not. The book begins in Maynard’s childhood – which is fine – but…Maynard didn’t have a traumatic childhood experience. The audience, at least this chick right here, expects a meaty, horrid, dark, and twisted tale. Instead, Maynard’s childhood is typical suburban America, a product of divorce. What I mean is – his childhood was average, the author could have skipped over it or quickly summarized. I am now on “skim reading,” searching for something of interest. But this text will go in the donation pile as it does not benefit my library. Not only that, but I have also lost respect for Maynard. Adding insult to injury, Maynard discussed how society should move away from capital gain and expect to give more than one takes – a sound idea, yet he is not leading by example. Music provides him with plenty of income, adding this book shows how capitalistic even the Artists can be. And that makes me terribly sad.

3. HLCA Global Conference 2016

Attending and presenting at The Humanities, Literature, Cultures, and Arts Global Conference 2016 cemented my desire for doctoral studies. I found “my people” in other academics. I cannot describe the energy, passion, and momentum present at conference. I only know that this is the place I belong. I am a scholar, and I crave company with other scholars. Why talk about sports or recipes when we can talk RESEARCH? O Philosophy! we can talk research! I cannot stress how refreshed I am at the notion that there is a sect of people who are interested in topics I contemplate. A network of Otherly thinkers is within grasp. In short: I am not standing alone – “The Cheese” comes in many fragrant samplings.

4. President-Elect Donald Trump…the election, it happened.

The before-and-after effects of the election are upsetting. What upsets me is the political process, the electoral college, and the mass usage of misinformation. When “Freedom of Speech” is exploited, is the action still “free”? There are so many controversial issues within politics that pointing the finger at figure-heads just seems silly. Read Democracy by Henry James; click HERE for a free download. The President is not the only one who needs an attitude adjustment – society is acting childish on both sides. The scary part is that real-deal ethics suffer, regardless who “wins.”

I advise each person to remember that they are an Individual, and individuals are responsible for their own actions. I cannot change the world, but I can change myself. I can be mindful of my actions, thoughts, and words. One trick I use – anytime I immediately want or reject something, I ask myself why I am feeling that way. I question my motives to see if they are, in fact, original and my own, or if the motive was learned.

{The Coffee Test: Americans wake in the morning and automatically have coffee. Ask the self, “Why do I drink coffee? Do I like it / depend on it? Do I drink it because that is what people drink in the morning? Do I really want a cup of coffee?” …well, do you? Or do you drink coffee in the morning because your dad does, and drinking coffee signifies that you are an adult? I drink coffee whenever I want because I like the hot cup in my hand.}

Choices. Every Individual must choose and then accept responsibility for their choices.

5. Secular Holiday Guide: What Non-Believers can do – Create their own Rituals

The Secular Student Alliance developed a Winter Solstice Event Guide. Click HERE for the Secular Student website, the guide is available for free download. The concept of ritual does not have to be removed for Free Thinkers. Humanity develops ritual and meaning by joining together. Personally, the Winter Solstice holds meaning as it signifies life surviving through harsh conditions. It means life continues on, regardless of the climate, despite the shorter days. And we, advanced humans, continue adapting, protecting ourselves from snow, wind, storm, and sea. Winter Solstice reminds me that life may struggle, but that the struggle produces a grand result. For nature, the result being Spring / rebirth.

Apply the concept with one’s life – what lessons did you learn by surviving your own struggle, your own Winter? …more than likely, you learned invaluable lessons that could not have been taught<>

Husband and I recently relocated. The Rocky Mountains display the meaning of “majestic.” Nephew and I are once again in the same time-zone, and we are eager for a visit. I believe the last time was … dear Reason…fifteen years ago. Wow. {letting that settle in, fifteen-years} Time! you ruthless thief.

Once removed from “West-By-God Virginia,” husband and I were exposed to modern-day comforts. I feel as though time-travel can exist, dependent on one’s perspective and definition. My world time-warped roughly twenty-years into the future. I stepped through an unseen void into the benefits of contemporary society. I am the child reborn, so to say. Sure, we knew Uber existed while living in WV – but it was always for other people. West Virginians stick to what they know, what “used to be done,” clinging to the past as if it produced oxygen.

We heard about Uber on television and the Internet like any other American would, but the niceties were not available in our small town. Charleston or Morgantown, WV may have these services, but Fairmont did not. In our town, locals relied on “Dirty Diane” – a questionable sort with a mini-van. {MTF on Experiences in Oddity: Fairmont, WV, an in-the-works memoir} Diane’s main hours revolved on ushering charges from one bar to the next.

Uber is innovative and nearly iSmart. The ease and dependability of securing a Ride is so much more realistic than standing along the curb waving one’s arm. I am curious of Uber standings in metropolises like New York City and D.C. Here in Colorado, Uber is a notable business.

What will Uber do to the Taxi industry?

I am curious, I do not know the answer. This will require <research> and further data. However, the gut tells me either A. Taxi companies came up with the idea for Uber and are receiving shares of the profit. OR B. Taxi companies will face extinction at the hands of Uber’s success.

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Apologies for the absence, but life she be hectic recently. I wish I found time for Friday Fictioneers, but…I also wish for a unicorn, unlimited travel, and brief moments of peace.

I graduated with honors from American Public University on 15 August 2016 with a Master of Arts in the Humanities. <> I am a Master <> While many have asked if attaining the degree is relieving, satisfying my intellectual needs. But…no ~ the degree has invigorated my thirst for more knowledge, more research, more academia. I cannot wait to find the perfect doctoral program. I currently am turning my gears around a project proposal for a desirable university.

First, however, my attentions belong with my upcoming poster presentation for the Humanities, Literature, Cultures, and Arts Global Conference on 18 Oct 2016 in DC. Excitement level out of control – ahh…sharing research<> Heaven – so looking forward to the conference!

I began tutoring for Brainfuse, Inc. last Friday. This will be a fabulous way for me to get a little teaching experience. Extra flexible, the tutoring position – Writing Submission Specialist – is online. This allows me the ability of working throughout the day. Recently, there is a high volume, and I have only stolen away a few moments to get a post out.

Husband and I are preparing for travel of the relocation variety. Finally! a return to the West! O Fortune! graceful blessings upon us! After a drawn-out process, the housing approval came through; bummer being that we opted to rent in efforts of avoiding the headache. However, anything that is valuable requires effort. Let me stew in patience until my nerves calm themselves. The desire for our new life overwhelms me, I feel I live there already. Here, in West Virginia, remains a ghost – a fragmented memory of a girl who escaped. Roll on evolution, keep spinning me…on we must grow for the better.

The absence, more than likely, will continue. Once we’ve constructed a new beginning, routine will follow. Until then… Tu me manques

“Backfired Awareness”

Brenda internally shook. Only a prank, she thought, things weren’t supposed to roll this way. The hoity-toity new mall in Southern West Virginia was an insult because none of the locals could afford the goods. Installing an Olympic-size swimming pool next to the food court — beyond absurd. Local activists hatched the plan, drained the pool, flooded the area. A statement, it was all just a statement. The Media, however, ran with it. The state of West Virginia was shut down, noted as a loss. That’s when they brought in the refugees, populating “Wild and Wonderful” with the world’s castoffs.

Hello Dear Readers and Fellow Authors…

This week, Rochelle Wisoff-Fields called on Janet M. Webb for Friday Fictioneer’s photo prompt. In 100 words, Friday Fictioneer Authors craft “story” from a picture. For me, the excess water automatically makes me think of those in the Southern part of the state who are currently still devastated by recent flooding. This weeks output of rain has probably not helped them recover. Husband and I are closer to Pennsylvania, and while we have had much rain we are not in dire straights as our Southern brothers/sisters.

I wish that there was something I could really do to help them, but my allergy to the sun prevents me from being able to get in the car and race down there. Silly, I know, but I am lucky if I can tolerate a five minute period outside. Even something simple like taking my dogs out may result in an attack. I linger in bits of shade, trying to hold on to consciousness.

Needless to say, I offer much thanks to the Friday Fictioneer family and friends for the online connection. I cannot enjoy summer like everyone else, but I can safely stay inside, working on “story.” Keep on spinning, Saffron. I can create a reality where the Sun does not set out to destroy me, or imagine what it would feel like to be “normal,” spending a day on the river or — hard to imagine — purposefully laying out in the sun for a lovely, golden complexion. “Story” has a way of providing for the mind when reality lacks. “Story” lives in the art we express. We can find “story” in many places: literature, theatre, film, COSplay, paintings, sculpture, photography, music, lyrics, and video games. Yes! I said, “video games” lol my all-time dislike {secret there is that I am terrible at ‘playing’}.

Click the BlueFrog below and read the other esteemed Friday Fictioneer stories. The concept is so interesting because one picture inspires endless possibilities<>. As always, if inspired by the photo prompt, please create a “story” all your own. Simply follow the links and copy the codes, and KaBam!…I, along with the other Authors, will read your “story” and offer feedback. Because, telling “story” holds rewards but so does knowing that someone reads your work.

Hello Dear Readers and Fellow Writers…

I’m sharing “To: R….” today, an electronic copy of my most recent works. We are fortunate to know R… and value his judgement and subjective outlook. That he also is on the Path of Optimism surely is not coincidence but maybe Quantum<>. For the original piece I invested more effort as the poem was a gift to my husband’s current closest friend. Their companionship is one of those unique connections that stand out in life. I created a “Thank You” card on the coolest textured paper, we’re going with pressed-bamboo. I wish I would have taken a pic of the card. I think it turned out well, even though I am not a “crafter.” The man, the myth, the legend, lol, is kinda a big deal because he is raising awareness right here in Wild n Wonderful — directly for Husband, it seems. Also, for me …not often enough do I encounter another “seeker,” and I value the philosophical hanglooses our friend endures. He has made the comment that he can understand how it is difficult for people to talk with me, in a sense that I am “too aware.”

He has a point, I come on very strong and lead with unsettling thoughts. Not many enjoy my thoughts, but… I will tell you a secret — I am not here for society’s enjoyment. My mission is to seek, find, question, contemplate, and create. There are plenty of others that may fill the role of performer. I am not here for amusement. I am looking for more. Entertainment is only entertaining if taken in proper doses. A life of constant amusement lacks substance. I am one that is more for substance. I take my amusement as a condiment, not a main course.

However, I sense a universal message: “Use language as the communication that it is, but if none understand what is said then meaning is lost.”

The process of Awakening varies per subjective individual. I feel both of our ways could be correct — the value lay in effort. There are many people who will understand our friend as his charisma carries his intentions, he speaks words the majority of people comprehend. His works are good. I am not speaking to the same audience or through the same media. I will work at improving my interactions with others, but I do not intend on shifting my audience. I am here for those already Woke. I am ready for progression into higher depths. My concern is not for the herd but for the other shepherds. These minds are not shattered by my words, they already see similar truths.

The best way for my mind’s continued growth is through further contemplation and creation. Others who think like me are surely out there; the journey, then, is the leading together of like minds. O Philosophy! think of the thoughts formed by a society of seekers. This is the companionship I crave.

Thus Spun Saffron

Saffron thought doily curtains were designed after crystalized snowflakes. Perfume trapped the elements of flowers. The daintiest of cakes are hinted with lavender. Any beauty created by human hands found example in nature. Ten years passed like shifting sand — the accumulation like frosty fingers. Only the first few issued pain, then a strange numbness set in her limbs. Saffron made herself cold, isolated, strong as the frosted glass. The harms of the world could not shatter personal fortitude. Positioned here, high up in her cave-like fortress, Saffron created reality for those too tired, for those unaware that they could.

Hello Dear Readers and Fellow Writers…

Every Friday, the lovely and talented Ms. Rochelle Wisoff-Fields shares a photo prompt, and creative Friday Fictioneer Authors create a story for the picture. Very cool<>… I look forward to Fridays for our outstanding fictional challenge. I like considering writing prompt practices as “exercise” for the brain. As hinted at through Saffron’s story above, We are the Artists – let us continue sculpting reality. Fiction presents a playing field for inventive imagination. Curious? …give Brian Boyd a read – On the Origin of Stories and see how fiction shapes experience.

Click the BlueFrog below to read the works of Friday Fictioneer Writers. Feeling creative?… I hope so 🙂 follow the link at the bottom of the BlueFrog’s page, follow directions, and add your own story as prompted by the photograph.

Who Are You?

I am currently attaining my Master of Arts in Humanities at American Public University Systems. I expect to complete this degree by August of 2016. I am a member of the American Humanist Association, the American Philosophical Association, PEN@America, the History of Science Society, and the Socratic Philosophical Honor Society. I would love to find an internship because I want to put my brain to good use. Philosophy has a mind to be "out there" gleaning experience. Human nature is twisting and growing - and the abilities we know are able to learn more. I am excited to be a philosopher, historian, writer, and occasional poetess.